The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has initiated the distribution of non-sensitive materials across all 18 local government areas in Ondo State, setting the stage for the November 16 governorship election.
Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Oluwatoyin Babalola revealed during a press briefing on Saturday that over 2 million residents are eligible to participate in the upcoming election.
“We have registered 2,053,061 eligible voters, comprising 1,034,006 males and 1,019,055 females, with a notable youth representation of 726,944,” she stated.
The electoral landscape has taken shape with 17 gubernatorial candidates and their running mates from various political parties vying for the state’s top position.
Mrs. Babalola emphasized the commission’s commitment to technological advancement in the electoral process, confirming the deployment of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and INEC Result Viewing Portal (IREV).
“The deployment of BVAS is a key innovation aimed at enhancing the credibility of the electoral process,” Mrs. Babalola explained.
She added, “BVAS will be deployed in all 3,933 polling units in the state for voter accreditation, ensuring that only registered voters with valid PVCs are allowed to vote.”
The recent Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise has yielded significant results, with Mrs. Babalola reporting, “58,708 new voters were registered, while 3,132 voters transferred their registration into the state.”
She also noted that 123 voters had transferred their registration out of the state.
Addressing concerns about election preparation, the REC detailed the commission’s progress in recruiting and training ad-hoc staff.
“Our focus during recruitment has been on competence, neutrality, and professionalism,” she affirmed.
“The NYSC members, who will form the majority of poll officials, have undergone 13 weeks of rigorous training.”
Recent controversy surfaced when the Ondo State Youth Vanguard petitioned INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, alleging compromises between the REC and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Mrs. Babalola firmly denied these allegations, maintaining that her interactions with political parties have been strictly professional and in line with INEC protocols.
ALSO READ: Edo 2024: Heading To tribunal, Ighodalo Dashes Okpebholo’s Hope For ‘Congratulation’
The commission has assured stakeholders of its readiness to conduct a free, fair, and credible election.
“We are working closely with relevant security agencies and stakeholders to ensure the safe storage and timely distribution of materials on the eve of the election,” Mrs. Babalola confirmed.
As Ondo State approaches this crucial democratic exercise, INEC has called for peaceful participation from all stakeholders.
The REC appeals to political parties, candidates, and their supporters to “respect the rules of engagement and promote a peaceful atmosphere before, during, and after the election.”
